Re: Sorrowful Announcement of the Passing of Alfredo Crespin Maestas

Here is Alfredo's Obituary as posted in the San Francisco Chronicle: MAESTAS, Rev. Deacon Alfredo C., Sr. - At rest in glory, the retired Reverend Deacon Alfredo C. Maestas, Sr. on January 5, 2003. An obedient disciple of the Lord's Catholic ministry in the Diocese of Stockton, CA. He retired in 2002 serving the Parish of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Manteca, CA. As a lay minister, the Reverend Alfredo counseled inmates and baptized countless followers of the Roman Catholic faith -- his true calling. Alfredo was the devoted husband of 54 years to Carmen (Gomez) Maestas. Together, the highly respected parents of Joseph Eloy, Viola, Yolanda (William Houff), Gilbert, Reba (Robert Torres), Rachel (Robert Escovedo), Mary, and Thomas (Delia). He is preceded in death by his eldest son, Alfredo, Jr. Cherished and adored by 21 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He leaves behind a host of loving relatives and friends throughout California, the South West, and other regions of the United States. Born November 23, 1924 in Tucumcari, NM, he gloriously joins his deceased family members; parents Felipe and Isabel Maestas, seven brothers and one sister. He is survived by two sisters, Mary Barrera and Rita Hernanadez. A WWII Veteran and a long-time resident of 26 years in San Francisco's Upper Noe Valley neighborhood and St. Paul Catholic Church's parish community. He retired from P. G. & E. in 1987. Alfredo will be remembered as a loyal Oakland A's fan and for his spiritual wit and unending humor. His greatest gift to his adoring family was his melodic voice and soulful guitar playing. A cowboy crooner of ballads and corridos, "You Are My Sunshine" remains the family's anthem. Visitation will be held Thursday, January 9, 2003, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm at P.L. Fry & Son Funeral Home at 290 N. Union Rd., Manteca, CA. A Vigil Service will be held Thursday, January 9, at 7:00 pm at St. Anthony's Catholic Church at 525 E. North Street, Manteca, CA. The Mass of Christian Burial will be said Friday, January 10, at 10:30 am at St. Patrick's Catholic Church at 19399 E. Highway 120, Ripon, CA. The Burial will take place immediately following the Mass at St. John's Catholic Cemetery at 17871 S. Carrolton Rd., Escalon, CA. In lieu of flowers, the family prefers that donations in Alfredo's honor be made to either St. Anthony's Building Fund, 505 E. North St., Manteca, CA 95336 or St. Paul's Church Preservation Fund, 221 Valley St., San Francisco, CA 94131-2320. P. L. Fry & Son Funeral Homes is in charge of his arrangements.